Essential Intervals in Music Theory

Intervals are the building blocks of music, defining the distance between pitches. Understanding these intervals helps us grasp how melodies and harmonies create emotions, tension, and resolution, shaping the music we love. Here’s a breakdown of key intervals.

1. Perfect Unison

   • The interval between two identical pitches.
   • Sounds harmonious and stable, often used to reinforce a melody.
   • Notated as "P1" in music theory.

2. Minor Second

   • The interval between two pitches that are one half step apart.
   • Creates a dissonant sound, often used to convey tension or unease.
   • Notated as "m2" in music theory.

3. Major Second

   • The interval between two pitches that are two half steps apart.
   • Sounds consonant and is commonly found in melodies and scales.
   • Notated as "M2" in music theory.

4. Minor Third

   • The interval between two pitches that are three half steps apart.
   • Evokes a melancholic or sad emotion, often used in minor key contexts.
   • Notated as "m3" in music theory.

5. Major Third

   • The interval between two pitches that are four half steps apart.
   • Produces a bright and happy sound, foundational in major chords.
   • Notated as "M3" in music theory.

6. Perfect Fourth

   • The interval between two pitches that are five half steps apart.
   • Often perceived as stable, but can also create tension when used in certain contexts.
   • Notated as "P4" in music theory.

7. Tritone (Augmented Fourth/Diminished Fifth)

   • The interval between two pitches that are six half steps apart.
   • Known for its dissonant quality, often referred to as the "devil's interval."
   • Notated as "A4" or "d5" in music theory.

8. Perfect Fifth

   • The interval between two pitches that are seven half steps apart.
   • Considered one of the most consonant intervals, forming the basis of many chords.
   • Notated as "P5" in music theory.

9. Minor Sixth

   • The interval between two pitches that are eight half steps apart.
   • Creates a somewhat dissonant sound, often used in jazz and modern music.
   • Notated as "m6" in music theory.

10. Major Sixth

    • The interval between two pitches that are nine half steps apart.
    • Sounds consonant and is often used in melodies to create a sense of resolution.
    • Notated as "M6" in music theory.

11. Minor Seventh

    • The interval between two pitches that are ten half steps apart.
    • Produces a tense sound, commonly used in jazz and blues music.
    • Notated as "m7" in music theory.

12. Major Seventh

    • The interval between two pitches that are eleven half steps apart.
    • Creates a rich, complex sound, often used in jazz and classical music.
    • Notated as "M7" in music theory.

13. Perfect Octave

    • The interval between two pitches that are twelve half steps apart.
    • Sounds very consonant and is perceived as the same note at a different pitch.
    • Notated as "P8" in music theory.